The collaboration will encompass the distribution of the Korean Light Civil Helicopter (LCH) and Light Armed Helicopter (LAH) globally, as well as the performance of comprehensive after-sales support services.

The MoU was signed today in Seoul, during the occasion of French President François Hollande’s visit. Signing the MoU were KAI’s Senior Vice President & General Manager of Rotary Wing Aircraft Research & Development Division, Dr. Joo Kyun Kim, and Norbert Ducrot, Airbus Helicopters’ Head of North Asia, with KAI President & CEO Ha Sung Yong and Airbus Group Executive Committee member Fabrice Brégier in witness.

“We have enjoyed great success in cooperation programs with Airbus Helicopters, with the Korean Utility Helicopter (KUH) program being a prime example,” said Dr. Kim. “Now as we look towards the future with our new LCH/LAH program, this collaboration is a natural next step that will enable both parties to leverage on each other’s strengths, to ensure success of these platforms in Korea and the world.”

A working group comprising members from both parties will determine the details of the joint marketing efforts of the helicopters and the provision of after-sales support in the coming months.

“Korea is one of Airbus Helicopters’ most important international customers. Thanks to this MoU, we will build a strong and mutually-beneficial relationship with KAI in order to jointly market the LCH/LAH worldwide,” said Ducrot. “On top of this, we will cooperate to provide support and services for more than 500 locally-made helicopters, which will bring tremendous benefits to both KAI and Airbus Helicopters for the next 20 to 30 years.”

About Airbus Helicopters: Airbus Helicopters is a division of Airbus Group. The company provides the most efficient civil and military helicopter solutions to its customers who serve, protect, save lives and safely carry passengers in highly demanding environments. Flying more than 3 million flight hours per year, the company’s in-service fleet includes some 12,000 helicopters operated by more than 3,000 customers in 152 countries. Airbus Helicopters employs more than 23,000 people worldwide and in 2014 generated revenues of 6.5 billion Euros. In line with the company’s new identity, fully integrated into Airbus Group, Airbus Helicopters has renamed its product range replacing the former “EC” designation with an “H”.